What is The Average Herniated Disc Surgery Recovery Time

Surgery is sometimes a necessary part of recovering from a herniated disc, but it's understandable to be concerned about the impact on your lifestyle and quality of life. The average herniated disc surgery recovery time depends on the type of surgery performed; in addition, patients can take steps to help ensure that their recovery is as smooth as possible. Below, we'll explore what to expect when recovering from herniated disc surgery.

Traditional vs. Laser Spine Surgery 

There are two main forms of herniated disc surgery - traditional spine surgery, and laser spine surgery. Although both types of surgery are effective at relieving symptoms, they vary in terms of the expected recovery period.

Traditional spine surgery is an invasive procedure, performed in the hospital. The doctor creates an incision along the spine, and must peel away skin, muscle, and connective tissue to access the spine. Once there, it's often necessary to perform procedures such as removing a small amount of vertebral bone. Since the surgery is so invasive, the recovery period is rather lengthy. It is often weeks before patients can return to everyday activities and work, and months before a full recovery is made.

Laser spine surgery is a minimally invasive form of surgery that can be used to treat most herniated discs. The procedure is performed in an outpatient clinic. Instead of creating an incision along the spine, the doctor makes two small incisions next to the affected disc, through which a laser probe and camera are inserted. Patients experience a shorter recovery period - most patients return to work in about a week, and make a full recovery in about 6 weeks.

Enhancing Your Recovery

You can take some steps after recovery to ensure that the process is as smooth as possible. Although some recovery time is unavoidable, being proactive about your recovery helps to minimize it. Steps include:

• Follow your doctor's recommendations regarding wound care in order to prevent infection and promote healing. 
• Take pain medication as needed - when your pain is under control, you can be more active and heal more quickly.
  
• Start physical therapy as soon as recommended, and follow any home exercises you are assigned.
  
• Get plenty of sleep and eat a healthy diet rich in protein and vitamins before and after surgery.
  
• Stop smoking for several weeks before and after surgery.
  

To learn more about whether herniated disc surgery is right for you, please click below and enter your information or call the Datta Endoscopic Back Surgery and Pain Center at (646) 374-1799.